Play Therapy in Sebastian, FL

Photo of Dr. Jennifer Hayes, PhD, LMFT, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jennifer Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958  (Online Only)
Hayes is a Registered Play Therapist therefore play therapy interventions are used to help children and teens process anxiety, trauma, and other mental health issues.
Telehealth services only: I work with clients that are motivated for change. I work with adults, teens, and kids. Relationships can be very stressful and overwhelming as today we do not have a village to help us and many people lack supports. My goal is to help you either as an individual or as a family move into a place of healing. Together we can explore unresolved trauma, communication patterns, conflict, emotions, all of it within the safety of a therapeutic relationship.
Hayes is a Registered Play Therapist therefore play therapy interventions are used to help children and teens process anxiety, trauma, and other mental health issues.
Telehealth services only: I work with clients that are motivated for change. I work with adults, teens, and kids. Relationships can be very stressful and overwhelming as today we do not have a village to help us and many people lack supports. My goal is to help you either as an individual or as a family move into a place of healing. Together we can explore unresolved trauma, communication patterns, conflict, emotions, all of it within the safety of a therapeutic relationship.
(772) 247-3941 View (772) 247-3941
Photo of Gabrielle Paige Hackett - Gabrielle P. Hackett, Psy.D., LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Gabrielle P. Hackett, Psy.D., LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, therapeutic modalities may range from traditional talk, psychodynamic therapy to cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy, behavior modification or when therapeutic, hypnotherapy.
It can be difficult to come to a psychologist's office to speak about our lives and people often suffer in silence because they believe their problems are too large, too small, unimportant or that nothing can bring about change. It is important to work through the things that cause us depression, anxiety or discomfort. Therefore, I approach every person as a special individual having unique experiences. While providing a safe, relaxing setting, I look for ways we can work together to change even the most tumultuous circumstances into calm, peaceful situations which lead a client to have enjoyable lives.
In my practice, therapeutic modalities may range from traditional talk, psychodynamic therapy to cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy, behavior modification or when therapeutic, hypnotherapy.
It can be difficult to come to a psychologist's office to speak about our lives and people often suffer in silence because they believe their problems are too large, too small, unimportant or that nothing can bring about change. It is important to work through the things that cause us depression, anxiety or discomfort. Therefore, I approach every person as a special individual having unique experiences. While providing a safe, relaxing setting, I look for ways we can work together to change even the most tumultuous circumstances into calm, peaceful situations which lead a client to have enjoyable lives.
(954) 654-7549 View (954) 654-7549
Photo of Mary Alice Green, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Mary Alice Green
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
Individual and family meetings using play and behavior therapy, filial therapy, anxiety management / relaxation and cognitive behavioral interventions.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor since 1992, serving adults, children and their families. Over 30 yrs experience specializing in children and adolescent issues: school, behavioral, anxiety/mood disorders, special needs, ADHD, ASD (Autism Spectrum disorders) and developmental delays. Internship completed at Devereux Children's Hospital working with Autism Spectrum and behavioral disorders. Experienced working in-home and schools with children and families regarding abuse and neglect, foster care, adoption, attachment disorders and behavioral issues. Coordinated on-site counseling programs for children and families in schools and home
Individual and family meetings using play and behavior therapy, filial therapy, anxiety management / relaxation and cognitive behavioral interventions.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor since 1992, serving adults, children and their families. Over 30 yrs experience specializing in children and adolescent issues: school, behavioral, anxiety/mood disorders, special needs, ADHD, ASD (Autism Spectrum disorders) and developmental delays. Internship completed at Devereux Children's Hospital working with Autism Spectrum and behavioral disorders. Experienced working in-home and schools with children and families regarding abuse and neglect, foster care, adoption, attachment disorders and behavioral issues. Coordinated on-site counseling programs for children and families in schools and home
(321) 766-8115 View (321) 766-8115
Photo of Rachel L. Toperzer, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, CYMHS, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel L. Toperzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, CYMHS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958
I incorporate play therapy, motivational interviewing, art therapy, and other treatment modalities.
Let's be real, parenting is hard. It can be especially challenging if your child has extra needs. I am here to help you with these challenges. I specialize in working with children from ages birth to 10 and their caregivers. I primarily help children who suffer from trauma, anxiety, and/or depression. I provide caregivers with support and skills to help them parent and work with their child's unique needs. Life is chaotic and often difficult to understand. I help children learn and understand their big emotions. I empower and advocate for them when needed. My goal is to enhance children's ability to build healthier relationships.
I incorporate play therapy, motivational interviewing, art therapy, and other treatment modalities.
Let's be real, parenting is hard. It can be especially challenging if your child has extra needs. I am here to help you with these challenges. I specialize in working with children from ages birth to 10 and their caregivers. I primarily help children who suffer from trauma, anxiety, and/or depression. I provide caregivers with support and skills to help them parent and work with their child's unique needs. Life is chaotic and often difficult to understand. I help children learn and understand their big emotions. I empower and advocate for them when needed. My goal is to enhance children's ability to build healthier relationships.
(772) 758-0599 View (772) 758-0599
Photo of Sandra L Clark, MA, PhD
Sandra L Clark
MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
I am a cognitive psychologist who provides you researched approaches such as Solution-based therapy, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a warm, safe environment. I am client-centered, together we work on skills and strategies to solve issues such as depression and anxiety with adults, child & adolescents and/or crisis intervention. You gain self-empowerment finding solutions to your problems. Working at your pace or that of your child and gain skills & strategies for daily life and you are rewarded by elevated self-esteem and self worth and negative feelings of being overwhelmed fade away.
I am a cognitive psychologist who provides you researched approaches such as Solution-based therapy, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a warm, safe environment. I am client-centered, together we work on skills and strategies to solve issues such as depression and anxiety with adults, child & adolescents and/or crisis intervention. You gain self-empowerment finding solutions to your problems. Working at your pace or that of your child and gain skills & strategies for daily life and you are rewarded by elevated self-esteem and self worth and negative feelings of being overwhelmed fade away.
(561) 708-4109 View (561) 708-4109
Photo of Pilar Greto, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Pilar Greto
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958
We all have gone through some stressful and traumatic events in our lives and although we consciously know that, what we lived, are past events, at times, those past events somehow become our present that seem to interfere with our ability to form and maintain positive relationships in our lives and feel good about ourselves. I can help you freeing yourself from the past and have present clarity to create your true you, so you can live your life with purpose. I am fully bi-lingual in English and Spanish and enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds.
We all have gone through some stressful and traumatic events in our lives and although we consciously know that, what we lived, are past events, at times, those past events somehow become our present that seem to interfere with our ability to form and maintain positive relationships in our lives and feel good about ourselves. I can help you freeing yourself from the past and have present clarity to create your true you, so you can live your life with purpose. I am fully bi-lingual in English and Spanish and enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds.
(772) 248-4101 View (772) 248-4101
Photo of New Way Counseling Nwcs - New Way Counseling Services, Inc., LMHC, CAP, NBCC, Counselor
New Way Counseling Services, Inc.
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, NBCC
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
We are positive thinking, forward moving team and we believe one should never give up hope. This is our philosophy and we practice what we preach. It is proven fact that once a person starts to think positive and push a little harder, things start to happen. So please never give up. If you are finding it hard to make things work and bring about a positive change in your life, we can give you some tools to turn things around.
We are positive thinking, forward moving team and we believe one should never give up hope. This is our philosophy and we practice what we preach. It is proven fact that once a person starts to think positive and push a little harder, things start to happen. So please never give up. If you are finding it hard to make things work and bring about a positive change in your life, we can give you some tools to turn things around.
(321) 418-3932 View (321) 418-3932
Photo of Tabitha Grant Dimino, MA, LMFT, MCAP, ICRCADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tabitha Grant Dimino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MCAP, ICRCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958
Whether you’re having difficulty with a life circumstance or past trauma has raised its ugly head, you’ve come to the right place. Healing and wholeness are possible for everyone! When you mix authentic care for others with proven professional clinical techniques, change is inevitable. My approach to therapy is a combination of direct, non-bias, evidenced-based practice mixed with a caring, strengths-based, client empowered perspective. I offer a safe, private, open space to discover and celebrate your authentic self. Clients have full access to my schedule via my website to self-schedule according to their needs & availability.
Whether you’re having difficulty with a life circumstance or past trauma has raised its ugly head, you’ve come to the right place. Healing and wholeness are possible for everyone! When you mix authentic care for others with proven professional clinical techniques, change is inevitable. My approach to therapy is a combination of direct, non-bias, evidenced-based practice mixed with a caring, strengths-based, client empowered perspective. I offer a safe, private, open space to discover and celebrate your authentic self. Clients have full access to my schedule via my website to self-schedule according to their needs & availability.
(772) 837-6474 View (772) 837-6474

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jenesis Vasquez, MS, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jenesis Vasquez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33125
Hello, My name is Jenesis Vasquez and I can't wait to work with you! I am currently accepting new clients. I am fluent in both English and Spanish. I believe that the bravest thing someone can do is begin to understand their own story. I want to help you start the new chapter of your life, whether it’s finding solutions, finding peace, or experiencing yourself in different ways! Whether you are a concerned parent for your child, an individual, or couple struggling with feeling like no one understands you, I am here to help. My sessions are a setting where you can feel free to discuss anything that you need to without judgement.
Hello, My name is Jenesis Vasquez and I can't wait to work with you! I am currently accepting new clients. I am fluent in both English and Spanish. I believe that the bravest thing someone can do is begin to understand their own story. I want to help you start the new chapter of your life, whether it’s finding solutions, finding peace, or experiencing yourself in different ways! Whether you are a concerned parent for your child, an individual, or couple struggling with feeling like no one understands you, I am here to help. My sessions are a setting where you can feel free to discuss anything that you need to without judgement.
(239) 230-0332 View (239) 230-0332
Photo of Stephanie Vega, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Vega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grant, FL 32949
My name is Stephanie Vega, and I was born in Newark, New Jersey, and raised in New York until I reached high school, where I continued my schooling in Florida. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or relationship problems, I'm here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. I want to empower my clients to gain new insights, develop effective coping strategies, and ultimately find their way toward a brighter future.
My name is Stephanie Vega, and I was born in Newark, New Jersey, and raised in New York until I reached high school, where I continued my schooling in Florida. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or relationship problems, I'm here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. I want to empower my clients to gain new insights, develop effective coping strategies, and ultimately find their way toward a brighter future.
(786) 629-9806 View (786) 629-9806

Online Therapists

Photo of Beth Pamela Siller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beth Pamela Siller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33437
Dramatic Arts, music, artistic expression, sensory experiences, and play are all crucial parts of children’s healthy social and emotional development.
Arts and Hearts Therapy is a creative approach to your child's needs. Is your child currently struggling to manage their big feelings? Are they finding it overwhelming and challenging to navigate their relationships with family and friends, establish a positive self-image, or manage their academic responsibilities alongside extra-curricular activities? Would you like some guidance and support around boundary setting, positive discipline practices, and authentic communication with your child? I've worked with children in academic settings since 2006. Various components of Early Childhood Education play a big role in my practice.
Dramatic Arts, music, artistic expression, sensory experiences, and play are all crucial parts of children’s healthy social and emotional development.
Arts and Hearts Therapy is a creative approach to your child's needs. Is your child currently struggling to manage their big feelings? Are they finding it overwhelming and challenging to navigate their relationships with family and friends, establish a positive self-image, or manage their academic responsibilities alongside extra-curricular activities? Would you like some guidance and support around boundary setting, positive discipline practices, and authentic communication with your child? I've worked with children in academic settings since 2006. Various components of Early Childhood Education play a big role in my practice.
(561) 677-9632 View (561) 677-9632
Photo of Lindsey D Miller, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lindsey D Miller
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
Lindsey holds a certificate in Play Therapy and specialized training in trauma recovery and sexual abuse recovery counseling.
Lindsey maintains a private practice, as well as, consulting with many local agencies regarding child and adolescent mental health. She provides quality mental health treatment to individuals, children, and families. Lindsey works with children, adolescents, and adults. She specializes in trauma recovery and the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in young children and adults. Additionally, Lindsey enjoys working with individuals to address mood disorders, life transition, personal growth, and behavior difficulties. She believes in the hope and healing that come through a client-centered, yet intentional, counseling process. Lindsey practices with Oviedo Counseling Associates providing outpatient counseling services.
Lindsey holds a certificate in Play Therapy and specialized training in trauma recovery and sexual abuse recovery counseling.
Lindsey maintains a private practice, as well as, consulting with many local agencies regarding child and adolescent mental health. She provides quality mental health treatment to individuals, children, and families. Lindsey works with children, adolescents, and adults. She specializes in trauma recovery and the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in young children and adults. Additionally, Lindsey enjoys working with individuals to address mood disorders, life transition, personal growth, and behavior difficulties. She believes in the hope and healing that come through a client-centered, yet intentional, counseling process. Lindsey practices with Oviedo Counseling Associates providing outpatient counseling services.
(407) 901-2478 View (407) 901-2478
Photo of Patrice Migliori-Farnes, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrice Migliori-Farnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boynton Beach, FL 33472
I am a Registered Play Therapist and work with chidren in a specialized playroom.
When we commit to doing life differently, we allow a healing transformation to occur in our lives. I am dedicated to helping you experience transformation, we accomplish this with the integration of traditional psychotherapy and experiential modalities. I specialize in using Sand Tray Therapy, Psychodrama and Play Therapy to facilitate healing. I am trained in EMDR, an effective highly researched yet gentle therapy for trauma resolution. Common issues I treat in therapy include anxiety, depression, feelings of low self worth and unresolved early childhood issues that lead to behaviors that make life unsatisfying.
I am a Registered Play Therapist and work with chidren in a specialized playroom.
When we commit to doing life differently, we allow a healing transformation to occur in our lives. I am dedicated to helping you experience transformation, we accomplish this with the integration of traditional psychotherapy and experiential modalities. I specialize in using Sand Tray Therapy, Psychodrama and Play Therapy to facilitate healing. I am trained in EMDR, an effective highly researched yet gentle therapy for trauma resolution. Common issues I treat in therapy include anxiety, depression, feelings of low self worth and unresolved early childhood issues that lead to behaviors that make life unsatisfying.
(561) 922-0254 View (561) 922-0254
Photo of Molly Owens, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Molly Owens
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32822  (Online Only)
I always aim to bring play, joy, and expressive arts into the healing process when able.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who would love to hear your story and help you achieve your goals. In my work as a counselor I enjoy helping children, adolescent and adult clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety and stress management, coping skills, depression, relationship issues, parenting issues, life changes, grief and loss, and self esteem.
I always aim to bring play, joy, and expressive arts into the healing process when able.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who would love to hear your story and help you achieve your goals. In my work as a counselor I enjoy helping children, adolescent and adult clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety and stress management, coping skills, depression, relationship issues, parenting issues, life changes, grief and loss, and self esteem.
(321) 342-2932 View (321) 342-2932
Photo of Amy Iannitelli Registered Play Therapist, MA, LMHC, RPT, Counselor
Amy Iannitelli Registered Play Therapist
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Debary, FL 32713
As a Play Therapist, I partner with kids and parents to strengthen their relationships with one another, manage behaviors and overcome pain and loss.
Are you or your child experiencing problems and struggling to cope? Therapy can help with family relationships, school problems and behavioral issues. I provide a safe and secure environment to empower you and your family. Therapy for both kids and grown-ups alike can be scary, however it can also be the journey that you are waiting to take.
As a Play Therapist, I partner with kids and parents to strengthen their relationships with one another, manage behaviors and overcome pain and loss.
Are you or your child experiencing problems and struggling to cope? Therapy can help with family relationships, school problems and behavioral issues. I provide a safe and secure environment to empower you and your family. Therapy for both kids and grown-ups alike can be scary, however it can also be the journey that you are waiting to take.
(386) 204-0759 View (386) 204-0759
Photo of Angie Guilbe, LMHC, RPT™, CATP, MS
Angie Guilbe
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, RPT™, CATP, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765  (Online Only)
Using a variety of skills/techniques such as play therapy and trauma work, I meet each client at their development level and/or wherever they are in their journey.
I am telehealth ONLY. I believe the client is the expert. The client is the driver and I'm the GPS on your journey to healing. We actively work towards achieving the goals you have for yourself or your child. Clients get out of therapy what they put in. I am also certified and trained in Narrative Exposure Trauma Therapy and Infant Family Mental Health. I strive to be my client’s biggest advocate as they discover their independence and their worth. I have experience working with families that are involved in custody disputes. I have experience in helping with timesharing plans that are in the best interest of the child(ren).
Using a variety of skills/techniques such as play therapy and trauma work, I meet each client at their development level and/or wherever they are in their journey.
I am telehealth ONLY. I believe the client is the expert. The client is the driver and I'm the GPS on your journey to healing. We actively work towards achieving the goals you have for yourself or your child. Clients get out of therapy what they put in. I am also certified and trained in Narrative Exposure Trauma Therapy and Infant Family Mental Health. I strive to be my client’s biggest advocate as they discover their independence and their worth. I have experience working with families that are involved in custody disputes. I have experience in helping with timesharing plans that are in the best interest of the child(ren).
(321) 351-3593 View (321) 351-3593
Photo of Diliana Polanco - Salix Behavioral and Wellness Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Salix Behavioral and Wellness Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32905
Our therapists incorporate CBT, DBT, Mindfulness skills, Art and Play therapy among other interventions to help you gain effective coping strategies for life's challenges, improved relationships and communication skills and enhance self-awareness and confidence.
Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow. Do you have a child with ASD or ADHD who struggles with depression or anxiety? Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, grief, stress related issues, family problems, relationship issues or feeling stuck in life? Our therapists provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences. We individualize treatment to client's specific needs, helping you gain clarity and understanding of yourself and your goals.
Our therapists incorporate CBT, DBT, Mindfulness skills, Art and Play therapy among other interventions to help you gain effective coping strategies for life's challenges, improved relationships and communication skills and enhance self-awareness and confidence.
Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow. Do you have a child with ASD or ADHD who struggles with depression or anxiety? Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, grief, stress related issues, family problems, relationship issues or feeling stuck in life? Our therapists provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences. We individualize treatment to client's specific needs, helping you gain clarity and understanding of yourself and your goals.
(321) 323-7264 View (321) 323-7264
Photo of Jane Marsha Nolan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Marsha Nolan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Jane has an assortment of various toys in her office where children love to play.
Jane has been an LCSW for the past 25 years practicing in Southern New Jersey and providing therapy to children, adults, couples, families, LGBTQ, HIV, and the Transgender population. She assists the client in helping them in empowering themselves. Jane loves working with children and providing Play Therapy in dealing with trauma. Trauma also effects adults which Jane addresses in therapy often helping the patient through encouragement with Cognitive, Behavioral, and Experiential Techniques. Jane is an eclectic therapist. Jane is on many insurance panels, has a flexible schedule, and looks forward to working with you.
Jane has an assortment of various toys in her office where children love to play.
Jane has been an LCSW for the past 25 years practicing in Southern New Jersey and providing therapy to children, adults, couples, families, LGBTQ, HIV, and the Transgender population. She assists the client in helping them in empowering themselves. Jane loves working with children and providing Play Therapy in dealing with trauma. Trauma also effects adults which Jane addresses in therapy often helping the patient through encouragement with Cognitive, Behavioral, and Experiential Techniques. Jane is an eclectic therapist. Jane is on many insurance panels, has a flexible schedule, and looks forward to working with you.
(561) 567-0231 View (561) 567-0231
Photo of Gabriel Oliver, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabriel Oliver
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751
He finds human connection and your personal experience to be very influential pieces in recovery, and as such, they play a big role in steering the healing journey.
Gabriel Oliver is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with 3 years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience helping people find their healing through individual, group, family, and couples counseling. Gabriel is passionate about helping people move from "hurt to whole" and walking alongside clients as they reach for their goals. While prepared to work with any population, Gabriel often specializes in trauma/complex trauma/abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavior modification, stress management, coping skills, and attachment issues.
He finds human connection and your personal experience to be very influential pieces in recovery, and as such, they play a big role in steering the healing journey.
Gabriel Oliver is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with 3 years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience helping people find their healing through individual, group, family, and couples counseling. Gabriel is passionate about helping people move from "hurt to whole" and walking alongside clients as they reach for their goals. While prepared to work with any population, Gabriel often specializes in trauma/complex trauma/abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavior modification, stress management, coping skills, and attachment issues.
(407) 584-4197 View (407) 584-4197
Photo of Ashley Wells, MS, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Wells
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32814
As a clinician it is my goal to provide counseling services for my clients and their families that help them work through the challenges that life presents and improve overall health & wellness. It is my goal to provide effective therapy in a supportive environment where my clinical approach is caring, collaborative and goal-directed. I am passionate about developing a strong therapeutic alliance with each client as well as their families. I have been trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, & Play Therapy. I use these modalities as they best fit the needs of each family.
As a clinician it is my goal to provide counseling services for my clients and their families that help them work through the challenges that life presents and improve overall health & wellness. It is my goal to provide effective therapy in a supportive environment where my clinical approach is caring, collaborative and goal-directed. I am passionate about developing a strong therapeutic alliance with each client as well as their families. I have been trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, & Play Therapy. I use these modalities as they best fit the needs of each family.
(321) 517-4950 View (321) 517-4950

See more therapy options for Sebastian

Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.